Paralyzed LSU cheer coach making comeback

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BATON ROUGE - Barely one year after a boating accident left him paralyzed from the neck down, Chico Garcia is making a comeback.

But Chico tells News 2 adjusting to his new life hasn't been easy. He starts each day with help from his parents and says it's those basic things he misses the most.

"I miss the small things and that's the funny thing, like laying down in the bed and trying to roll over and get into a comfortable spot. I miss hugging people, you know, just weird things. Brushing my own teeth, or wiping my face, or cleaning my face, or fixing my hair," said Chico.

Despite the challenges Chico has found ways to gain back his independence. His family finally got a much-needed van with a lift that can manage his wheel chair. And Chico's home is now connected to his iPad. He can do everything from turn on the TV and change the channels, to locking and un-clocking the front door.

He's also back at work at day job at the Apple store in Baton Rouge. He says he's got a long way to go, but make the strides he's already made gives him hope.

"I'm pretty much on my own now. I can go where I need to go and do what I need to do. I don't need any help or anything. I don't need anyone to stand over me and hover me. You can pretty much leave me alone now and I'll be fine. I've got my Ipad, Iphone and my little drink pack and I'm good to go." Said Chico

To find out more about Chico's journey and how you can help, click on this link.